Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp (15 Minutes)

A Quick and Luxurious Shrimp Dish

This Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is the perfect balance of elegance and simplicity. Juicy shrimp are seared to perfection and then coated in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that comes together in minutes. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can whip up at home in just 15 minutes.

Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the velvety sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
• Rich & Flavorful – A luscious garlic cream sauce enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp.
• Versatile – Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with a side of vegetables.
• Minimal Ingredients – Requires only a handful of pantry staples.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or white wine)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Shrimp

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.

3. Finish the Sauce

• Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Combine and Serve

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until well coated.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

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Variations & Additions

• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
• Swap the Protein: Try chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

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Servings & Cooking Time

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s texture.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so remove them from the heat as soon as they are done.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water for 10 minutes before cooking.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

What’s the best wine to use for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well.

Can I make this sauce thicker?

Yes, let it simmer longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water.

What should I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?

Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are great options.

Can I add lemon juice?

Yes, a splash of lemon juice adds brightness and enhances the flavors.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid high heat when adding cream and stir gently to maintain a smooth consistency.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but add them at the end to prevent overcooking and rubbery texture.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! Serve it over cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb meal.

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Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a go-to recipe for anyone who loves quick, flavorful meals. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress. With its rich garlic-infused sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, this dish will become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes!

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